We are Fort Buchanan. The Fort Buchanan Public Affairs Office brings you El Morro, the garrison newspaper.

1. El Morro
Puerto Rican Boa gets a new home, Page 20 Exchange shopper’s survey results, Page 5
Fort Buchanan
Community
images now
available on
Vol. 47 issue 7 The Sentinel of the Caribbean February 2012
Reserve Soldiers ‘more relevant’ than ever
By C. Todd Lopez During his visits around the about the future of their jobs Stultz said, Jan. 31, at a meet- was a result of the wars in
Army News Service Iraq and Afghanistan. Dur-
force, Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, and their relevance in Ameri- ing of the Reserve Officer As-
WASHINGTON -- Amidst chief, Army Reserve said the ca’s defense. sociation in Washington, D.C. ing that time, Stultz said, the
concerns of budget and troop No. 1 question he’s asked by “My answer to the Sol- The active duty Army will Army relied heavily on the
reductions, Reserve Soldiers Soldiers is “what’s going on” diers is, ‘You are going to draw down from 570,000 Reserve to fulfill important
remain a critical component with regards to budget and become even more relevant Soldiers to 490,000 Soldiers combat support and combat
of America’s defense, said the force cuts. Those Soldiers, than you’ve ever been to our over the next six years. The
chief of the Army Reserve. Stultz said, are concerned national security strategy,’” growth to 570,000 Soldiers RESERVE Page 6
News
Voter help, Pages 10, 11
VITA Tax Office
Fort Buchanan’s Vol-
unteer Income Tax As-
sistance office is now
accepting appointments
for tax services. The of-
fice, staffed by volun-
teers will begin serving
the Fort Buchanan com-
munity Feb. 13 but those
personnel eligible for
free tax assistance are Installation Management Command’s Atlantic Region Director, Davis D. Tindoll Jr. throws his support behind the garrison’s recent graduates of the Civilian
to call (787)707-5138 Leader Development Program during a work force town hall meeting Feb. 2.
to schedule an appoint-
Regional director visits garrison
ment.
As with all VITA ser-
vices, active duty and
dependents of active
duty personnel have first Tindoll bolsters support for CLDP, prepares workforce for upcoming change in a new fiscal reality
priority for tax assis-
tance. Story and photos workforce about the new fiscal “As we wind down this war, thorizations,” said Cushman.
By Luis Delgadillo
All others interested Fort Buchanan Public Affairs
reality facing Fort Buchanan. the Chief of the Army Reserve In other words the needs of
in free tax assistance The presentation covered wants to maintain an opera- the Army Reserve must match
will be taken on a first In a town hall meeting Feb. an overview of what Fort Bu- tional Army Reserve. To do budgets operating in the new
come first serve basis. 2 held at the Community Club, chanan’s future will be as well so, we want to continue with fiscal reality. Such actions are
The VITA office will be Col. John D. Cushman, the as how members of the work the training programs and the taking place throughout the
open from until April garrison commander and In- force can get there. The event things that are available to Department of Defense.
13, four days before the stallation Management Com- included a questions and an- them (Reserve Soldiers) so “It’s not just something
income tax deadline. mand’s Atlantic Region Direc- swer session with the Region that there is going to be a bal-
tor spoke to members of the Director Davis D. Tindoll Jr. ancing of requirements and au- TOWN HALL Page 9

2. 2
February 2012
The Command Group
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
El Morro
Fort Buchanan
Commander Commentary
After 10 years of war the dent’s Budget. cost accountability across all are still going through the
United States and our mili- This directive withdrew IMCOM garrisons. process waiting for a final
tary are at a strategic revision approximately $834 million The Army’s FY 13-17 decision.
point. Significant changes re- in Operations and Mainte- POM has been the guiding At Fort Buchanan, we are
quire a reshaping of our pri- nance funding. The Installa- force behind Fort Buchan- making thoughtful and delib-
El Morro
orities based on our mission. tion Management Command an’s decision-making pro- erate choices in a manner that
Garrison Commander All these changes reflect the portion of the 8,741 autho- cess. We’ve gone through ev- best supports our mission.
Col. John D. Cushman need to adapt to the changing rization decrease is 4,162 ery program and budget line, We continue to manage the
Deputy to the Garrison Commander nature of our military envi- authorizations to be reduced making disciplined decisions talent within our workforce
Gunnar G.F. Pedersen Jr. ronment and fiscal realities. no later than Sept. 30 of this based on strategic priorities. in a way that best supports
Deputy Commander Our fiscal environment has year. First, we went through the the Army’s mission.
Lt. Col. Kenneth M. Hammond
changed dramatically. The Force Restructure Re- Manpower Assessment, and The Army’s guidance rec-
Garrison Command Sergeant Major The Army was given hard view served as the catalyst then submitted a “Reclama” ognizes that we are at a stra-
Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson
targets to reduce its Civilian for these HQDA-directed for those positions that need- tegic point after a decade of
Public Affairs Officer on-board strength by 8,741 decrements to OMA direct- ed to be revised. war, with new challenges and
Grissel Rosa
authorizations by the end of funded civilian authoriza- Now we are in the process opportunities that call for a
Media Relations
Pedro Silva Fiscal Year 2012. These re- tions within IMCOM. The of final approval of the as- reshaping of our priorities.
Command Information
ductions have nothing to do rationale behind IMCOM’s sessment concept plan to be We remain committed to
Luis Delgadillo with mandated sequestration Force Restructure Review submitted to the U.S. Army take care of our Soldiers,
El Morro Contributors actions or other potential conducted last year was: to Manpower Analysis Agency Civilians, Families and Re-
Capt. Taylor Opel
Luis Salazar budget cuts in the future. rebalance resources across (USAMAA) in order to de- tirees and to support a ready,
1st Mission Support Command The reductions must meet similar size garrisons; right- velop a new TDA that will agile, flexible and capable
Public Affairs Officer
Maj. Carlos M. Cuebas funded targets established size to support mission criti- balance our workforce re- force; the finest military in
Mailing address —
by the Secretary of Defense cal/mission essential tasks; to sources. Once the concept the world, capable of protect-
Public Affairs Office
Building 390 Crane Loop Ste. 311
in Resource Management Di- eliminate duplication, over- plan is approved by the USA- ing America’s national secu-
Fort Buchanan PR, 00934-4616 rective (RMD) 703A2, as re- head, and excess; and to in- MAA, it goes to the Army’s rity. I will continue to keep
Story submissions — flected in the FY 2012 Presi- still a culture of savings and G1 for implementation. We you informed of the process.
E-mail to: luis.s.delgadillo.civ@mail.mil
The Army’s Backbone
Telephone numbers —
(787)707-5762/4486 Fax: (787)707-3362
1st MSC submissions — Command Sgt. Maj. Derrick T. Simpson
E-mail to: carlos.cuebasmedina@us.army.mil
1st MSC telephone number —
(787)707-4988 Often times in large organi- evaluating its effectiveness. In addition to doing more sergeants major will be look-
El Morro is an authorized publica- zations it’s necessary to have Ensuring that fixes really Soldiers must prepare them- ing to junior noncommis-
tion printed in accordance with Army members gather together and do fix a problem is how we selves individually to be sioned officers to enforce the
Regulation 360-1.
Contents of El Morro are not neces- assess if the goals of the orga- achieve success. more competitive when it standard. We are what right
sarily the official views of, or endorsed nization are being achieved. It is this evaluation pro- comes to career progression. looks like and if you as an
by, the U.S. Government, the Depart-
ment of Defense, Department of the Here at Fort Buchanan we do cess, which must be carried At the center of this new NCO are not toeing the line
Army or U.S. Army Garrison, Fort
Buchanan.
this in the form of town hall out more consistently in ev- competitive culture will be and following Army stan-
El Morro is published monthly by meetings and to a greater ex- ery part of our lives. Even an adherence to Army physical dards, well then the standards
the Public Affairs Office, U.S. Army
Garrison. Circulation 5,000. tent during meetings between after action review only takes fitness and height and weight will be enforced upon you.
All editorial content of El Morro the garrison commander and you so far, at the end of an standards. Recently, the ser- Many of the drills ser-
is prepared, edited, provided and ap-
proved by the U.S. Army Garrison Pub- the directorates. AAR we must also consider geant major of the Army geants Sergeant Major of
lic Affairs Office. For guidance on how I’m speaking in general an appropriate time to reeval- Raymond Chandler visited the Army Chandler spoke to
to submit items for publication e-mail
the garrison Public Affairs Office. terms here but the meetings uate the training event so we drill sergeant school at Fort were doing right and to them
The Editor reserves right to edit all
submissions and to determine the suit-
usually begin by identifying can be certain that the three Jackson, S.C. and was taken and to you out there in the
ability for inclusion in El Morro. issues, developing solutions, items we chose as “sustains” aback to discover “too many Fort Buchanan community
Every effort will be made to publish
submissions in a timely manner. How- coming up with implementa- were sustained and so that people who show up at Drill doing right I say drive on,
ever, time, layout, style and editorial tion plans for the solutions the items we wanted to im- Sergeant School who don’t keep motivating mentoring
considerations, as well as determina-
tions for publication, are made by the and in the best cases the prove, in fact, did improve. meet height and weight stan- and training your Soldiers.
Commander or the Public Affairs Of- problems are addressed. One Whether it is at the end of dards, can’t pass the PT test For those who are meeting
ficer.
of the dangers of having a a town hall meeting like the or, heaven forbid, just choose the standard, do not leave
successful meeting is the de- one recently held Feb. 2 or at to not show up.” your fellow Soldiers behind.
velopment of a false sense the end of a successful battle The Sergeant Major of the Follow up with them regu-
of comfort that an issue has training assembly. We must Army fully intends to hold larly and give them the tools
been addressed appropri- ask “are we doing the right people accountable for such they need so they can be suc-
ately. We are living in a time things?” transgressions and I can tell cessful.
of transition and as such it is In the coming years the you that from where I am this Do not be complacent
very important that we get size of our Army will be re- is a philosophy that will take about your career and rec-
things right. duced by up to 50,000 Sol- root as leaders are able to ognize that your future is in-
One of the key parts of diers. This means that those be more selective with Sol- extricably linked to how you
developing a solution is re- who remain will be respon- diers who want to continue to look, act and perform.
visiting that solution and sible for doing more, better. serve. I, like other command Army Strong.

3. El Morro
Fort Buchanan
From The Top
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
3
February 2012
African American/Black History: Exploring women’s roles
African American female We are grateful for the sacri- Black History Month.
The Association for the Study of African American Life and Two Star General and recog- fices and contributions African Signed,
History dedicates the 2012 Annual Black History Theme nize Ms. Tracey Pinson, the American Women, Soldiers,
to exploring African American women’s roles in and con- Army’s highest ranking fe- Civilians and Families have Raymond F. Chandler III
tributions to the making of America. From the American male African American Senior played in our success. We en- Sergeant Major of the Army
Revolution to the present, African American women have Executive Service member. courage the entire Army Fam-
played a myriad of critical roles in the making of our na- These women, and so many ily to honor publicly their con- Raymond T. Odierno
tion. Their labor and leadership, their motherhood and others, are expressions of a vi- tributions by encouraging all General, United States Army
patriotism, and their intellect and artistic expression have brant culture in which African leaders from across the Army Chief of Staff
all enriched both the African American community and American women play a criti- to plan and execute appropri-
the nation at large. In slavery and freedom, their struggles cal role in the strength of this ate commemorative activities John M. McHugh
have been at the heart of the human experience, and their Nation and our Army. to celebrate African American/ Secretary of the Army
triumphs over racism and sexism are a testimonial to our
common human spirit.
African American women From Harriet Tubman, a
have played a vital role in the leader and conductor of the
history of our Nation and our Underground Railroad, to
Army since the American Rev- Rosa Parks, the mother of the
olution. Their patriotism, loy- modern Civil Rights Move-
alty and leadership, coupled ment, to First Lady Michelle
with their hard work, intellect Obama, these courageous
and artistic expression, have women serve as role models
enriched the African American for all to emulate.
community and the Nation as The Army has also benefit-
a whole. In slavery and free- ted from the leadership, intel-
dom, their struggles have been ligence and contributions of
at the heart of the human expe- the African American women
rience, and their fight against in our ranks, and today we
racism and sexism serve as a celebrate the recent promo-
testament to their persever- tion of Major General Marcia
ance to overcome adversity. Anderson, the Army’s first
Thoughts from the Chaplain’s office
Writer and pastor John
“...And surely I am with Ortberg uses this illustra-
you always, to the very tion in his book, “God is
end of the age.” Closer Than You Think”, to
-Matthew 28:20 illustrate the point that many
times in trials, struggles,
hardships, or even in times of
Have you ever seen the abundance and joy we seem
books, “Where’s Waldo?” to miss how close God re-
The theme of the book is to ally is with us every day and
try and identify a cartoon night. Knowing how close
drawing of a scrawny man God is to you in the obstacles
wearing a little red hat and of life is much like reading a
glasses in the midst of thou- “Where’s Waldo” book, the Assistant Chaplain,
sands of other people, places more you look, the easier He Capt. Timothy Stansberry
and things on the same page. is to find. Fort Buchanan Chapel Schedule
The first attempts at finding Apostle Paul knew how to in despair; persecuted, but
Waldo can be quite frustrat- find God in even the tough- not abandoned; struck down, Roman Catholic Masses Protestant
ing, and even challenging. est conditions. Here is a man but not destroyed.” Sunday mornings — 11:30 a.m. Collective Protestant Service
When you begin to process who was beaten, whipped, Just imagine what your day — Post Chapel Sunday morning — 9:00 a.m.
what Waldo looks like and chained, and tortured for his might be like with that kind Confessions: Sunday mornings — Post Chapel.
how he appears it becomes faith, and yet still proclaimed of attitude, really knowing –11:00 a.m.—Post Chapel 1st Sunday of every Month — 3
easier to find him. You can the presence of God in your Weekdays, call 244-4981 or 707- p.m. —Youth Ministry—Chapel
his belief.
go back and look at preced- 3904. Annex, Bldg 292
In 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 life.
Preparation for Confirmation,
ing pages and you find him Paul writes, “We are hard First Communion, Counseling: Call the Chapel of-
in even more places than the pressed on every side, but not Blessings, RCIA, etc. call 707-3904. fice at 707-3904 or 238-7668.
first time you looked. crushed, perplexed, but not Chaplain Stansberry

4. 4
February 2012
News
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
El Morro
Fort Buchanan
Austin sworn in as vice chief of staff
By Courtney Dock-Abuhl ways has been, a full-spec-
Army News Service
trum leader,” McHugh said.
“[He is] a leader that at every
JOINT BASE MYER- level of command has dem-
HENDERSON HALL, Va. -- onstrated to his troops the
Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III was right way to lead, the right
sworn in as the Army’s 33rd way to live as a Soldier.”
vice chief of staff during a After assuming responsi-
ceremony here, Jan. 31. bility, the general thanked his
Secretary of the Army John family, friends, and former
M. McHugh administered leaders. He also thanked the
the oath of office and then Soldiers he’s worked with
thanked the general for his throughout his career. He
outstanding service and dedi- said the ceremony was just
cation to the Army. as much about them as it was
“I expect Lloyd to con- about him.
tinue his leadership and ad- America’s Soldiers “con-
vocacy on behalf of Soldiers tinue to amaze me with their
and their families, just as he continued resilience, flexibil-
has in virtually every other ity and motivation,” Austin
assignment he’s held,” said said. “They are indeed the
McHugh. “Lloyd Austin has fabric of our Army. They’ve
always led from the front, led made every seemingly im- Photo by Rachel Larue
by example -- not just telling possible task look easy.” Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh swears in 33rd Vice Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III on
Soldiers, but showing Sol- Most recently, Austin Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Jan. 31, 2012.
diers the right way, the Army served as commanding gen-
way, the Lloyd Austin way.” eral of United States Forces American Soldiers. incident and they finished Austin replaces Gen. Peter
After the oath, McHugh - Iraq. In fact, he was the “Most recently in Iraq, ahead of schedule. They did Chiarelli as the vice chief of
presented Austin with the last to hold that position, as they’ve completed one of the all of this in contact with a staff of the Army. Chiarelli
vice chief of staff flag, signi- Operation New Dawn ended most complex logistics and determined enemy. I am truly retired from the Army after
fying the general’s assump- in December. The complex operational maneuvers in our humbled by and thankful for 40 years of service during a
tion of responsibility. task of leaving Iraq was com- nation’s history,” said Aus- their service and their many ceremony held earlier in the
“Lloyd Austin is, as he al- pleted, in no small part, by tin. “They did it all without sacrifices.” day.
Resiliency application available on smart phones
By Cheryl Rodewig meeting personalized goals, could have on Soldiers after
Fort Benning Bayonet was spearheaded by the Sys- a deployment is “enormous,” Get the Comprehensive Soldier Fitness
FORT BENNING, Ga. tems Training Branch on post said Rhodes, who was diag- Resiliency Goals Book App
-- The Comprehensive Sol- and the Signal Center of Excel- nosed with post-traumatic
dier Fitness Resiliency Goals lence at Fort Gordon, Ga. stress disorder in 2005 after Android Users: Comprehensive Soldier Fit-
Book, previously released as A digital, interactive version three tours in Iraq and believes 1. Go directly to https:// ness
an app for iPhones and iPads, of the printed CSF Resiliency resiliency could be the key to market.android.com/ 3. Download
is now available for Android Goals Book rel-eased in 2010, counteracting the effects of details?id=com.fa53.respro- -- Also --
users. the app supports the Army’s post-traumatic stress disorder, ject 1. Open iTunes on your per-
About 5,700 people have CSF program by letting Sol- or PTSD. 2. Download the app sonal computer
downloaded the app since its diers connect their Global As- Rhodes, a retired command -- Also -- 2. Click on the iTunes Store
debut last summer, said Sam sessment Tool results to prac- sergeant major, is now an ad- 1. Search the Android market on the left-hand side
Rhodes, the action officer with tical exercises and email the vocate for building resiliency for FA53. 3. Type in Goal Setting --
the Directorate of Training and feedback to their supervisors. in Soldiers. Apple Users Comprehensive Soldier Fit-
Doctrine who was responsible Rhodes said the app covers “Goal setting has been iden- 1. Go to the app store on your ness
for getting the app developed, “the dynamics of our life, both tified by research (as) the num- iPhone or iPad 4. Click on the app with the
tested, revised and ready for professional and personal.” ber one thing that enhances 2. Search for Goal Setting CSF icon.
use. “In the past we have set performance,” he said. “If we
“(That) is just the begin- goals during counseling ses- use goal setting to improve our
ning,” he said. “We’re setting sions, conversations with our performance, it will increase CSF logo with the words “goal oping an app that will work on
the groundwork for years to friends,” he said. “We never resilience in our Soldiers be- setting” written in yellow let- as many of the devices as pos-
come. The future of our coun- had a device in which we can fore, during and after their ters on an Army star. The app sible. As a point of reference,
try will be determined by how set our goals and go back and combat missions.” is free. the app is currently available
resilient our warriors are.” actually receive reminders that When users download the “The Android has limita- on 934 different devices. We
The app, which helps users we have them.” The positive app, they should make sure it’s tions,” Rhodes said, “particu- will continue to revise and up-
gain resiliency by setting and impact the use of goal setting the right one by looking for the larly when it comes to devel- date it to make it user friendly.”

5. El Morro
Fort Buchanan
News
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
5
February 2012
Exchange shoppers survey reveals satisfaction
AAFES Public Affairs 2011 was a 88, 11 points above
Puerto Rico – At 116 years the overall average of 77.
of age, the Army & Air Force “We’re excited about the
Exchange Service may not satisfaction level shown by
have “moves like Jagger” but Fort Buchanan Exchange
its shoppers are getting plenty shoppers,” said the Exchange’s
of satisfaction according to General Manager Tony Pares.
a recent American Customer “We continue to maintain an
Satisfaction Index (ACSI) sur- intense focus on customer sat-
vey. isfaction in an effort to meet,
The ACSI was developed or beat, shoppers’ expecta-
to provide information on sat- tions. The survey, which ad-
isfaction with the quality of dresses customer service and
products and services avail- many more key issues, is ad-
able to consumers. In the latest ministered at 130 Exchange
survey, the Exchange scored main stores around the world.
higher than ever before as its The next CSI survey will take
operations equalled the indus- place at Fort Buchanan in the
try of excellence. In addition fall 2012. “Feedback from
to the ACSI, the Exchange re- military shoppers is an invalu-
lies on a Customer Service In- able tool in our on-going ef-
dex (CSI) to provide localized, fort to provide the best service
real-time snapshots of the job possible,” said Pares. “Both
Exchange facilities do to im- the ACSI and CSI enable us to
prove the value of support pro- ensure that when soldier shop, Courtesy photo
vided to Soldier and their fam- the Fort Buchanan Exchange Ana Arroyo, a jewelry associate, with the Fort Buchanan Exchange poses for a photo while helping a customer with
ilies. Here at Fort Buchanan, is top of mind and their first a Valentine’s Day purchase. Curt Knighten, Sales and Merchandise manager for the Exchange, said Arroyo, “is an
the Exchange’s CSI score for choice.” exceptional customer oriented associate.”
Deadline nears for ‘Scholarships for Military Children’ applications
DeCA Public Affairs rollment Eligibility Reporting “Whose four faces would missary; submitting to more be accepted.
FORT LEE, Va. – Eligible System DEERS database and you place on a 21st century than one store will disqualify For information, contact
students who want to apply have a current military ID Mount Rushmore-type monu- the applicant from consider- Scholarship Managers at 856-
for the 2012 Scholarships for card. ment, and why?” The person ation. 616-9311 or email them at
Military Children program • Military family member. Ap- must be nonfictional, U.S. • No faxes or emails. Faxed or militaryscholar@scholarship-
still have time, but the clock plicants must be a dependent, citizen, male or female – the emailed applications will not managers.com.
is ticking. Applications must unmarried child – no older time frame for the selection is
be completed and delivered – than 21, or 23 if enrolled as a 1850 to 2011.
not postmarked, but delivered full-time student at a college • Correct address. Applicants
– to a commissary by close of or university – of a service must provide their permanent
business Feb. 24. member on active duty, a re- home address on the front
Scholarship applications servist, guardsman or retiree, page of the application – not
are available in commissar- or survivor of a service mem- their college address.
ies and online at http://www. ber who died while on active • Complete package. The sub-
commissaries.com – choose duty or survivor of a retiree. mission package must include
the “News & Info” tab and • College bound. The student the following: 1) transcript or
then the “Scholarship Info” must be planning to attend, or copy of applicant’s grades; 2)
tab. Applications are also already be attending, an ac- essay with applicant’s name
available at http://www.mili- credited college or university, on each page; 3) parent or
taryscholar.org. At least one full time in the fall of 2012 or guardian’s signature as well
$1,500 scholarship will be be enrolled in a program of as the applicant’s signature
awarded at every commissary studies designed to transfer on application; and 4) appli-
with qualified applicants. directly into a four-year pro- cant’s high school College
The following are key re- gram. Board Code number (if avail-
minders for scholarship appli- • Essay. The essay must be able).
cations, which are also avail- 500 words or less, stapled to • Keep a copy. Applicants
able in greater detail on http:// the application and written in should also maintain their
www.militaryscholar.org: the following format: typed, own copy of their application
• Current military ID. Appli- double spaced, no more than and essay.
cants and their sponsors must two pages, applicant’s name • Submit to one commissary.
be enrolled in the Defense En- in upper right-hand corner of Applicants can only submit
each page. The essay topic: their application to one com-

6. 6
February 2012
News
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
El Morro
Fort Buchanan
RESERVE, From Page 1 An operational Reserve, he
said starts with capability. That
service support missions. The means a force with capabilities
Reserve, he added, is where that can be maintained, that is
the bulk of combat support, or ready on short notice without
CS, and combat service sup- the need for a lot of additional
port, known as CSS, Soldiers training, and that is accessible.
reside. “That, to me, is the start of
“To the point where today, a definition of an operational
if you’re in the transportation Reserve,” Stultz said.
community in the Guard and An operational Reserve is
Reserve, you represent about a force made of Soldiers who
80-85 percent of the Army’s are also civilians. Those Sol-
capability,” Stultz said, add- diers must be able to maintain
ing that for engineers, that their military skill set even
number is about 75 percent. when they are not in uniform
The Reserve components also -- so when they are called
represent about 70 percent of upon, they are ready. To make
the Army’s medical capacity, that happen, Stultz said, the
about 85 percent of its civil Reserve must focus on being
affairs capacity, about 66 per- a force that provides skill sets
cent of the Army’s logistics that are shared among both the Photo by C. Todd Lopez
capacity and about 70 percent military and the civilian com- Amidst concerns of budget and troop reductions, Reserve Soldiers remain a critical component of America’s defense,
of its military police. munities. said Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, chief, Army Reserve. The general spoke during a Jan. 31, 2012, meeting of the Reserve
The Army will continue to The Reserve component is Officer Association in Washington, D.C.
lean heavily on the Reserve able to maintain a ready cadre
components for these services of Soldiers in the medical field “The role of an operational background screenings who To that end, Stultz said, the
after it draws down its own because many of those Sol- Reserve in the future is going are drug free, healthy, and who Reserve is investing in simu-
Soldiers. diers are working related jobs to be plug and play,” Stultz possess a set of skills that are lator training, including those
“Our nation and our military in the private sector. There, said. “Where do we need these applicable in the civilian world for weapons systems and ve-
are going to be dependent on Stultz said, they are getting capabilities, and can you scale “There’s a value of having hicle simulators. “That is what
access to the Reserve compo- great training -- sometimes them either up or down to fit a Soldier as an employee,” we want that Soldier to expe-
nents,” Stultz said. And the na- even better than what’s avail- what we need?” Stultz said. “If we are going to rience when he comes to that
tion expects the Reserve to be able in the military. The same Stultz said a modular opera- have this operational Reserve, drill -- something realistic.”
ready. is true for engineers and other tional reserve could provide we are going to have to have Trained Reserve Soldiers
Operational Reserve “hard skills” like electricians, the capability needed, in the some confidence we can get to want to put their skills to use,
Stultz said the Reserve will carpenters and plumbers. right amount. them when we need them, and Stultz said. And the Reserve
be an “operational reserve,” a “To me, an operational Re- “If I need some engineer have the employers say, ‘We knows how to do that.
term he said has been in use serve is where you can have capability, but I don’t need a support you.’” “That’s were that predict-
now for a number of years. those capabilities,” he said. whole battalion, can you give What Soldiers Want ability, that five-year model
Being an operational reserve Stultz also said the future of it to me?” he asked. Soldiers have asked for three comes into play,” he said. Four
involves capability, modular- the operational Reserve is go- Soldiers in the Reserve things from the Reserve, Stultz years at home for a Reserve
ity and employer support. ing to involve modularity. components need jobs, and said. They want predictability Soldier means predictability
they need employers that un- -- and their civilian employers for him, his family and his em-
derstand their service commit- do too, they want the Reserve ployer -- after that, they want
ment. At the same time, the to put them and their skills to the opportunity to put their
civilian employers of those good use and above all, they training to use doing some-
Soldiers need some stability don’t want their time wasted. thing meaningful for the Re-
from their employees. Stultz said the Reserve rec- serve.
“If we don’t have the em- ognizes that Soldiers have “If you look at what’s a huge
ployers and we don’t have the been to Iraq and Afghanistan demand now, it is a lot of sta-
families, we won’t have the -- they’ve trained hard for that, bility, theater-engaged, securi-
Soldiers,” Stultz said. “We and they’ve got combat expe- ty-cooperation types of work
have to make the employers rience under their belts. Now, that we’ve been doing,” he
part of this equation.” he said, they want to main- said. Included in those kinds
The Army Reserve champi- tain that experience and skill of engagements are medical
oned the Employer Partnership -- they don’t’ want their time readiness exercises abroad
of the Armed Forces program, wasted with what they consid- in countries like El Salvador,
before it was transitioned to er irrelevant training. Guatemala, Costa Rica, Pana-
the Department of Defense. “Don’t expect me to show ma, Columbia and Haiti.
That program now involves up at a drill hall and sit in a In the past, units might have
more than 25,000 civilian em- classroom and listen to some deployed to such missions for
Photo courtesy 35th Expeditionary Signal Battalion
ployers. The partnership pro- PowerPoint presentation -- a month. Now, Stultz said, he
U.S. Army Reserve soldiers assigned to the 35th Expeditionary Signal Bat- vides good job opportunities that’s not relevant,” he said, could let units go for three
talion, 1st Mission Support Command, configures the Voice Over Internet to Soldiers, and quality em- relaying sentiments he’s heard months or more.
Protocol phones during the unit’s communication exercise 2-3 Dec, 2011. As
part of the event, the troops were required to conduct intense troubleshooting
ployees to civilian employers from Soldiers. “Make the
tasks to ensure communications was maintained at all times. -- employees, Stultz said, with training worthwhile.” RESERVE Page 7

7. El Morro
Fort Buchanan
News
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
7
February 2012
New bioelectric bandage interests Army Former 65th USARCOM command
By Dan Kennedy infections. The combination of dage is currently being used on
sergeant major succumbs to illness
PMO Medical Devices silver, zinc, and moisture is pur- hard-to-heal wounds, with mul- By José Babilonia
ported to create pain-reducing tiple research studies underway. 1st MSC Public Affairs
FORT DETRICK, Md. -- The antimicrobial micro-currents. Anecdotal results are promising,
U.S. Army Medical Research According to literature from the especially with regard to pain Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.)
and Materiel Command has ini- manufacturer, the results of this control. In some cases, wound Neddie Feliciano passed away
tiated steps to evaluate a new bandage dressing include faster pain is reported to be reduced Jan. 19, at the age of 70, due
bioelectric bandage healing, greater pain control, dramatically. to health complications.
Small silver and zinc dots reduced incidence of infection, The nature of the cloth con- Command Sgt. Maj. Feli-
embedded into cloth create and decreased scarring. forms well to multiple surfaces ciano was born Sept. 9, 1941
micro-currents in the presence The U.S. Food and Drug of the body. Bacterial, viral, and and served as the senior non-
of moisture. This may create an Administration has cleared the fungal infections are anticipated commissioned officer in the
anti-microbial environment and device for antimicrobial wound to be impacted by the antimicro- US Army Reserve-Puerto
provide pain reduction. care, which is the primary rea- bial properties of the bandage Rico, while serving with the
The use of silver on burns son for the Army’s genuine in- dressing, which has tremendous 65th US Army Reserve Com-
has a long history of preventing mand, from 1986 to 1993. Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.)
terest in the product. The ban- potential for Soldier use.
“When he saw something Neddie Feliciano
Studies are underway with
Ranger units. Recently, at a wrong, he didn’t hesitate in
Ranger road march, a consid- making a correction” said about Feliciano’s days in the
erable number of Soldiers ob- Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Felix A. San- command. The members of
tained blisters and were treated toni, former Commanding the US Army Reserve-Puerto
with the bandage. The results General of the 65th ARCOM, Rico express deepest sympa-
were notable, as many Soldiers and current Civilian Aide to thy to the family of Command
reported dramatic pain relief the Secretary of the Army for Sgt. Maj. Feliciano. May he
and the ability to quickly return Puerto Rico, while reflecting rest in peace.
to the march.
The public may hear more New Civilian Record Brief provides
employees a snapshot of their data
about this bandage as indica-
tions for use are expanded.
Currently, indications for use
SAN ANTONIO – The Army will also enable supervisors and
are directed toward all full- and
has developed a Civilian Record managers to better mentor em-
partial-thickness skin wounds,
Courtesy Photo Brief for civilian employees and ployees.
from simple abrasions and skin
A new bioelectric bandage is being examined by the Army to see if it speeds their supervisors. A side benefit of the CRB is
tears to traumatic wounds and
up healing, provides greater pain control, reduces infection risk, and de- The one-page CRB provides the ability to use it as a founda-
creases scarring. surgical sites.
a snapshot of an employee’s of- tion for and/or attachment to
ficial data pulled from various resumes and Individual Devel-
RESERVE, From Page 6 vide this continuum where you have the right transition pro- sources: MyBiz, Defense Ci- opment Plans (IDPs). The CRB
can move back and forth, as gram in place,” he said. vilian Personnel Data System, enables employees to include
The Reserve could provide you or the Army desires,” he The Reserve is working Notices of Personnel Actions employment data not included
hospital units to the Southern said. closely with the Army to mini- (SF-50s), and Army Training in official records that may be
Command, for instance, allow- Even Soldiers in the Indi- mize that loss of investment, Requirements and Resources of value to a future employer
ing expansion of engagement vidual Ready Reserve would Stultz said. He also stressed System. By consolidating data (such as non-Army positions,
opportunities. Engineer units, be assigned to a particular unit the importance of informing onto a single page, employees developmental assignments and
he added, could be deployed a for both muster and support. Soldiers of their options as will be able to easily review military duties).
company at a time, for 90 days The effort gives Soldiers the they prepare to leave the ac- their personnel data, ensuring The CRB will be available
each and overlapping -- “Let ability to move back to mili- tive component. Additionally, the official database information to employees through the Em-
them build a school all through tary life if they want. the important relationships the is accurate and complete. ployee tab in CPOL. You may
the year.” A “Soldier for life” culture, Reserve has built with civilian Installation Management update some information using
Soldier for Life he said, provides Soldiers a employers makes it easier for Command leadership empha- the self-service capabilities of
Stultz said he told the Ar- way to continue to serve their Soldiers to find jobs as they sizes the importance of civilian MyBiz and CPOL Portal. To
my’s chief of staff if he could country full time, or part time prepare to move out of the ac- employees taking ownership of access your CRB go to http://
change one thing about the -- explaining that some Sol- tive Army -- and that makes it their careers and ensuring their acpol.army.mil/and log in via
Army, he’d like to create an diers might want to serve part easier to choose to stay in the records are correct. The CRB the Employee Portal. Click on
Army culture that supported time, but simply don’t’ know Army as a member of the Re- will serve as a vehicle to correct the Employee tab and your CRB
the notion of “a Soldier for how to make it happen. serve. and update missing or outdated will be located under the Self
life.” For the Army, he said, it “For every one of those that information such as training, Service Applications section.
Such a culture, he said, helps to prevent the loss of transitions into the reserve, awards, performance histories Changes made using MyBiz
would provide Soldiers with years of training and skill. that’s one less recruit to pay a and education. Civilians will be will normally be reflected in the
the opportunity to move more “If we’re going to come bonus to, that’s one less triag- able to use MyBiz to self-certify employee’s personnel record the
easily, in either direction, be- down from 570,000 to 490,000 ing seat at Fort Jackson (S.C.) and update degrees, professional following day. If you encoun-
tween the Reserve and active on the active side, think of the or Fort Benning (Ga.) -- be- licenses, occupational certifica- ter issues when accessing your
components. investment that is going to cause we’ve already invested tions, professional military edu- CRB, use the help desk ticket
“We have to be able to pro- walk out the door if we don’t in that Soldier,” Stultz said. cation and technical training. It function in MyBiz.

8. 8
February 2012
News
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
El Morro
Fort Buchanan
DoD begins prorating imminent danger pay
By Jim Garamone President Barack Obama ceived $225 per month if they the number of days they are in day month, which translates
American Forces Press Service
signed into law Dec. 31. spent any time that month in the area to verify that they are into a rate of $7.50 per day. It
“Members will see the pro- an area where the pay was au- paid for the correct number of does not matter if the month
WASHINGTON -- Service rated amount in their Feb. thorized. days, officials said. is 28 or 31 days long, officials
members now will receive 15 pay records,” Pentagon “This is a more targeted The military services are explained; if service members
imminent danger pay only spokesman Navy Capt. John way of handling that pay,” working to waive or remit serve in affected areas for the
for days they actually spend Kirby said. Kirby said. debts for members who may complete month, they will re-
in hazardous areas, Pentagon The act called for DOD Now, service members will have been ceive the full
officials said here today. to pay service members im- receive $7.50 a day for days overpaid for rate of $225
The change, which took ef- minent danger pay only for spent in these areas. Person- January, of- per month.
fect yesterday, was included the time they spend in areas nel who travel to the designat- ficials said. The De-
in the 2012 National Defense that qualify for the pay. In ed areas for periods less than The services Members will see the pro- fense De-
Authorization Act, which the past, service members re- 30 days should keep track of can waive rated amount in their Feb. partment
this “when 15 pay records, d e f i n e s
there is no imminent
indication of Navy Capt. John Kirby danger pay
fraud, fault, - Pentagon spokesman areas as
misrepre- places where
sentation, or members are
when mem- subject to
bers were the threat of
unaware they were overpaid,” physical harm or imminent
Pentagon spokeswoman Ei- danger because of civil insur-
leen Lainez said. rection, civil war, terrorism or
Proration is based on a 30- wartime conditions.
Service members who
Spc. Aaron Sellars, from Cobden, come under fire, regardless
Ill., serving with 3rd Platoon, A of location, will receive the
Company, 3-1 Special Troop Bat-
talion, provides security during a
full monthly hostile-fire pay
convoy stop, Khoshi district, Logar amount of $225.
province, Afghanistan, Jan. 25, Service members will re-
2012. Service members deployed ceive notification of the
to places such as Afghanistan will
change via emails, on the
now receive imminent danger pay
only for days they actually spend in MyPay system, on social me-
hazardous areas, Pentagon officials dia sites and via the chain of
Photo by Spc. Austin Berner said Feb. 2, in Washington, D.C. command.
Fort Buchanan’s organizational
page is now available on Facebook
Fort Buchanan now has an official page on Facebook. Find
photos, video and important news and event information
from us here by logging on and clicking “like” on our page.
This month look for the snake rescue photo album, which
documented the recovery and release of an endangered
Puerto Rican Boa.
From Facebook.com Search
“U.S. Army Garrison Fort Buchanan”
then find our government organization page.
or visit
www.facebook.com/fortbuchanan

9. El Morro
Fort Buchanan
News
The Sentinel of the Caribbean February 2012
9
LEADER, From Page 1 (Beck’s) impression of Fort
Buchanan is that it is a great
that Fort Buchanan is going place, and you are great peo-
through but (it’s something) ple, doing a great job,” he said.
the whole Army is going When Cushman completed
through,” he said. his remarks he gave the floor
While it’s no secret that to Tindoll who immediately
there will be some reduction issued a challenge to garrison
in the number of employees employees.
at Fort Buchanan Cushman “I want to start with the
expressed the need to stay fo- leader development program,
cused on the mission. I had the opportunity to meet
“I continue to ask that you the members that took advan-
continue to do what you do tage of that opportunity, ‘you
every single day for us. The all stand up one more time,’
way you do your work the ladies and gentlemen these
way you support our custom- are the future leaders of this
ers. The way you support each organization,” said Tindoll.
other because that’s really our “You inspired me, you fired
job and we have to be commit- me up, you made me believe
ted to doing that every single that where we are going is go-
day,” Cush- ing to exceed
Photos by Luis Delgadillo
man said. what lead-
This in- ers today, Marie Ramírez, an administrative assistant with the Directorate of Public Works speaks to members of the Fort Bu-
cludes sup- We have the essence of a including chanan work force about the benefits she gained as a graduate of the Civilian Leader Development Program during
the town hall meeting Feb. 2. The Fort Buchanan’s Civilian Leader Development Program has extended the deadline
porting the team but your lacking one myself, have
to apply from Feb. 14 to Feb. 29. CLDP class two is scheduled to begin in June.
Army Re- become.”
serve Com- thing ... the Army Commu- According addressed with the crowd was region director turned his at- challenge: to improve commu-
mand’s em- nity of Excellence award to program the need for all installations to, tention to the item missing nication and work together and
phasis on the managers “get smaller.” from the garrison colors. overcome obstacles as a team.
Davis D. Tindoll Jr.
installation such train- One of the ways Tindoll said “We have the essence of The town hall meeting em-
supporting - Atlantic Region Director ing does not
this was going to take shape a team but your lacking one phasized the challenges that
the Army Re- guarantee a was through a reduction in the thing ... the Army Commu- the installation faces but more
serve island- promotion at amount approved that can be nity of Excellence award,” than anything it served as a
wide, which Fort Buchan- distributed as bonus awards. said Tindoll. “I want to see a call to action.
includes “supporting the real- an but instead prepares ambi- The cap for awards was 5 per- streamer on this flag.” To be better and do better in
property responsibility of all of tious members of the work cent of an employees salary Tindoll described the chal- order to provide Soldier, Civil-
the Reserve centers throughout force to seek challenges else but in the 2012 fiscal year bo- lenges that Fort Buchanan ians and their Families with a
the island,” Cushman said. where and the training increas- nuses will be capped at 1 per- faces in successfully compet- quality of life commensurate
Cushman spoke about Maj. es the likelihood of advancing cent. ing as an Army Community of with the quality of their ser-
Gen. Gil Beck’s visit to the one’s career. Shifting gears the Atlantic Excellence and issued another vice.
garrison the week of Jan. 23- “I challenge the various di-
27. Beck is the commander rectorates to send your best
of the 81st Regional Support (through the CLDP), if you
Command, and the Senior don’t send your best you’re
Commander for Fort Buchan- sending the wrong people,”
an. said Tindoll.
“Let me tell you, that his The other main point Tindoll
Davis D. Tindoll Jr, Installation Management Command’s Atlantic Region
director and Col John D. Cushman listen to a briefing given by the Director-
ate of Public Works Feb. 2

10. Federal Voter Ass
10 February 2012
http://www.flickr.com/photos/fortbuchanan_elmorro/
The Sentinel of
Garrison voting assistance officer open
By Luis Delgadillo absentee ballot cards,” said Cruz. His normal duties receive assistance from Cruz if they have any qu
Fort Buchanan Public Affairs
include assisting families of survivors understand the tions but ultimately they must complete the proc
benefits they are entitled. themselves.
Election year is heating up and Fort Buchanan’s “There is a new system that is online and voters can “He (the Soldier) has the responsibility of send
Voting Assistance Officer, Luis Cruz located in the go and register into this Web site and actually fill out it or taking it to the elections office here in Pu
Welcome Center, Building 152 is ready to help gar- the absentee ballot online, which is a lot easier, rather Rico,” said Cruz.
rison Soldiers with any questions related to voting. than requesting the absentee ballot and having to fill Cruz said that like him there is also a person
During this election year he was chosen by his su- it out manually,” said Cruz. cilitating this program with the 1st Mission Sup
periors at the Directorate of Human Resources to en- Cruz said that if there are people who wish to fill Command. The person there is Luis Camacho, a
sure that Soldiers assigned to the garrison exercise it out absentee ballot request forms manually or with man resources specialist. Cruz even has the ad
their right to vote. some assistance, not with selecting candidates but role of being able to provide voting assistance
“The purpose of the voter assistance program is to with the process, he is available to facilitate the pro- units outside the 1st MSC’s subordinate units like
(help) US personnel that live abroad, including Puer- gram. 2-348th Infantry Regiment or the 402nd Civil Aff
to Rico, how to request and how to access the voters Soldiers from Puerto Rico who are abroad can also Battalion, which are located here at Fort Buchana
Though Cruz is relatively new to the program, h
ing only complete the required training two mon
ago, he now knows the process and has alre
helped Soldiers at the garrison.
Sgt. Michele Fermin, a paralegal noncomm
sioned officer with the installation legal office vis
Cruz recently and picked up her voting materials
her home state of New York.
“I did it that way last year also,” said Fermin re
Luis Cruz, a casualty assistance officer with the Directorate o
for Fort Buchanan’s Soldiers. While the garrison only has a f
of the civilian work force who wish to exercise their right to v

11. sistance Program
the Caribbean
http://www.flickr.com/photos/fortbuchanan_elmorro/ El Morro
Fort Buchanan 11
n for business
ues- ring to using the voter assistance program. Fermin
cess said that as soon as she received the memo disemi-
nated by the Director of Human Resources, Maria
ding Morales she knew who to go see about exercising her
uerto right to vote. “I just vote in the federal election,” she
said
n fa- While Fermin’s experience with the process was
pport relatively painless others don’t fare so well.
hu- Cruz said the most common problem is, “People
dded not knowing how to use the absentee ballot system.
e to It’s not used quite as often as it should.”
e the Though Cruz can help with basic questions he said
fairs it is ultimately the responsibility of all voters to gain
an. an understanding of the voting laws from the state
hav- they wish to vote in. Cruz said members of the com-
nths munity should keep an eye out for him and his coun-
eady terpart, Camacho at the 1st MSC because toward the
middle of February they will host an information dis-
mis- play at the Exchange mall.
sited “We encourage people to vote, to use their given
s for right to vote … we are here, we have the system in
place to sit down and go over the absentee ballot (re-
efer- quest form) if they have any questions,” he said.
of Human Resources has been designated as the Voting Assistance Officer
few Soldiers assigned Cruz said that he would be open to helping members
vote through absentee ballot

12. 12
February 2012
Features
The Sentinel of the Caribbean
El Morro
Fort Buchanan
El Morro Sits down with DAV national service officer
As a longtime advocate of Normally, in the morning
veterans, Alex(is) Martinez, I usually get into the office at
supervisor, national service 7 o’clock. The rest of the staff
officer for Disabled American usually is in at 7:30 a.m. or 8
Veterans works day in day out o’clock. We do interviews,
to enable veterans and pre- schedule interviews, if a per-
serve the services they have. son walks in we also do walk
This interview has been edited in interviews based on what is
for length and clarity. going on and what evidence
is needed to substantiate the
1. El Morro: How long have claim. Review files to see if
you been a member of the there is documentation that we
Fort Buchanan community? can grab onto to help substan-
About six years. tiate the claim. Also, uh, we
2. El Morro: Where did you do board of veterans appeals
come from? hearings, we do teleconfer-
I came from St. Peters- ences. As a matter of fact, next
burg, I was actually born here week we’re doing teleconfer-
but raised in the states. I was ence hearings. We have board
raised in Detroit, then joined members that come from the
the military and when I left the board of veterans appeals in Courtesy graphic
military the DAV hired me as a Washington D.C. They come
tice of disagreement with the specialist, that’s been around they can get benefits. You
paid employee. down and do the hearings also
decision. Normally, we try to for many years. They have the don’t have to have a missing
3. El Morro: How long has … so (we do) appeals, hear-
avoid the whole appeals pro- authority to change the deci- limb; you don’t have to have a
the organization been serv- ing, claims … a lot of stuff like
cess, why, because the veteran sion that was made before and scarred face. There are people
ing veterans in Puerto Rico? that. We also provide service
and the family are the ones if that doesn’t satisfy the ap- who have disabilities with psy-
Since about the 1970s. The over in the hospital, the VA
who suffer. We can request a peal we can go to the board of chiatric conditions; they have
organization started in 1920 medical center in room 103.
reconsideration and say ‘hey veteran’s appeals. conditions that you can’t see
by a group of people who had 5. El Morro: The veterans
there’s more evidence here’. 6. El Morro: What are some … internal organs, especially
a common interest to help the hearings, are those for ser-
We can do a local hearing with common misconceptions with the IEDs improvised
other veterans get through the vice members who haven’t
the employee at the regional about Disabled American explosive devices. You have
disability process and in 1932 been approved for disability
office, (called the) decision Veterans, the organization? people who have internal inju-
it was chartered by congress. benefits?
review officer process, that’s Martinez: There are indi-
4. El Morro: What does your Exactly, it’s part of the ap- DAV Page 19
more like a seasoned rating viduals that do not know that
typical workday look like? pellate process; you file a no-
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The satisfaction percentage on the ICE report is based on the number of “yes”
photos published in the El Morro contact the editor,
responses to the satisfaction question. The Overall Satisfaction question is
designed to rate the customer total experience and the results are used to
Luis Delgadillo at: determine the satisfaction percentage for that particular service. If the cus-
(787)707-5762 or by e-mail at tomer does not respond to the satisfaction question, the submission will not be
luis.s.delgadillo.civ@mail.mil included in the satisfaction percentage that is rolled up in reports.
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